FAQs

A. H2O Audio Surge Waterproof Headphones feature sealed, watertight speaker chambers. During initial use, your headphones may sound distorted or operate at very low audio levels due to a vacuum formed in the speaker chamber during air travel or shipment.

Volume and sound quality will return to normal once the pressure equalizes. Playing the headphones at 90% volume for 30 minutes typically solves this problem. Some users have also found that headphones equalize more quickly if they gently suck air out of and/or blow air into the sound tube of the headphones (we know it sounds a bit funny but it actually works!). Compressed air shouldn’t be used.

You may also find it helpful to tap the sound tube of the headphones face down into the palm of your hand as this can aid in relieving any built up pressure as well.

If the problem still occurs, wait 24 hours and test them again as the headphones will usually equalize within a short period of time.

If your headphones do not equalize or if you have any questions, please contact H2O Audio Customer Service at 800-708-6080 or support@h2oaudio.com.

A. The best way to achieve a watertight fit while swimming is to experiment with different earplug sizes, styles, and the angle of insertion until you find the combination that sounds and fits best.

Here are a few additional tips we’ve discovered through customer feedback:

• Push the earplugs into your ear canals far enough to establish a secure fit but not so far they become uncomfortable.
• A tighter seal may be achieved by pulling your upper ear back while inserting the earplugs.
• You may find it preferable to use different size earplugs for each ear.

For optimal in water performance, the earplugs should completely seal your ear canals:

• Insert earplugs before your ears get wet to achieve the best watertight seal.
• Larger size earplugs may be preferable during active and/or in water use as they may offer more contact with the ear and a tighter seal.

Additional tips for swimmers:

• Wrapping the headphone cables around your swim goggle straps before placing them in your ears can help secure a better fit.
• The headphones may stay in place more easily if they are tucked underneath a swim cap.

A. Yes. Surge Waterproof Headphones come with a wide variety of earplug sizes and styles to ensure a secure and comfortable fit while swimming, running, or working out.

A. Surge Headphones are 100% Waterproof and can be exposed / submerged in water for unlimited time periods. If the headphones come out of your ears and fall into the water, simply shake or blow off any surface water that may remain in the earplug to help ensure the best sound experience.

A. Yes. The wide variety of earplug sizes and styles included with Surge Waterproof Headphones provide a watertight seal with your ear canals to ensure the headphones sound as good in the water as out.

A. Yes. The watertight seal created by the earplugs forms a closed air space in your ear canals. As you swim underwater the water pressure pushes the headphones deeper into your ears thereby compressing the sealed air cavity. This forces the speaker diaphragm to work harder against the added resistance and subsequently lowers the volume. You’ll notice the volume increases as you get closer to the water’s surface.

A. Yes. You can purchase replacement earplugs from our online shop.

A. No. H2O Audio earplugs do not contain Latex.

A. No. Do not attempt to wear Surge Waterproof Headphones without the earplugs as this may result in injury.

A. To determine whether the problem is coming from the headphones or the armband/case you will need to perform the following test.

01. Take the rubber SealTight™ Connector boot off the armband/case.
02. Plug the headphones completely into the headphone jack. You should hear a faint click as the headphones plug into place.
03. Test the audio with an mp3 player in the armband/case by gently wiggling the connection while listening to the headphones.

If the audio is coming out of both speakers:
Put the SealTight™ Connector boot back on the armband/case. Plug the headphones into the armband/case by rotating the plug as it's inserted in to the jack, this will release any air bubbles or pressure that may have formed inside the SealTight Connector. At this point audio should be coming out of both speakers.
Nothing is wrong with your headphones or armband/case, just remember to plug your headphones in completely by rotating the plug each time you plug your headphones in.

If the audio is intermittent:
There is a problem and you need to continue with the test to determine if it is the headphones or the armband/case.
04. Remove the SealTight™ Connector boot and plug a regular set of headphones into the armband/case. Test the audio with a mp3 player in the armband/case by gently wiggling the connection while listening to the headphones.

If the audio is still intermittent:
Your armband/case is defective. Please refer to the Return Warranty Policy.

If the audio is working:
05. Take your mp3 player out of the armband/case and plug the H2O Audio Waterproof Headphones directly into the mp3 player. Test the audio by gently wiggling the connection while listening to the headphones. The audio should be intermittent, confirming your headphones are the problem. Please refer to our Return Warranty Policy.

A. Surge Waterproof Headphones are compatible with all H2O Audio Amphibx Waterproof Armbands and all H2O Audio waterproof cases with the exception of those listed below.

Surge Headphones are NOT compatible with the following H2O Audio cases:
iSH3 – Interval Waterproof Headphone System for the iPod shuffle 3rd Gen
iSH2 – Waterproof Headset for the iPod shuffle 2nd

A. H2O Audio Surge Waterproof Headphones feature sealed, watertight speaker chambers. Your headphones may sound distorted or operate at very low audio levels due to a vacuum formed in the speaker chamber during air travel or shipment. Volume and sound quality will return to normal once the pressure equalizes. Playing the headset at 90% volume for 30min typically solves this problem. If the problem still occurs, wait 24 hours and test again as the headphones will usually equalize within a short period of time.

If your headphones do not equalize or if you have any questions, please contact H2O Audio Customer Service at 800-708-6080 or support@h2oaudio.com.

A. To determine whether the problem is coming from the headphones or the armband/case you will need to perform the following test.

01. Take the rubber SealTight™ Connector boot off the armband/case.
02. Plug the headphones completely into the headphone jack. You should hear a faint click as the headphones plug into place.
03. Test the audio with an mp3 player in the armband/case by gently wiggling the connection while listening to the headphones.

If the audio is coming out of both speakers:
Put the SealTight™ Connector boot back on the armband/case. Plug the headphones into the armband/case by rotating the plug as it's inserted in to the jack, this will release any air bubbles or pressure that may have formed inside the SealTight Connector. At this point audio should be coming out of both speakers.
Nothing is wrong with your headphones or armband/case, just remember to plug your headphones in completely by rotating the plug each time you plug your headphones in.

If the audio is intermittent:
There is a problem and you need to continue with the test to determine if it is the headphones or the armband/case.
04. Remove the SealTight™ Connector boot and plug a regular set of headphones into the armband/case. Test the audio with a mp3 player in the armband/case by gently wiggling the connection while listening to the headphones.

If the audio is still intermittent:
Your armband/case is defective. Please refer to the Return Warranty Policy.

If the audio is working:
05. Take your mp3 player out of the armband/case and plug the H2O Audio Waterproof Headphones directly into the mp3 player. Test the audio by gently wiggling the connection while listening to the headphones. The audio should be intermittent, confirming your headphones are the problem. Please refer to our Return Warranty Policy.

A. Surge Waterproof Headphones are compatible with all H2O Audio Amphibx Waterproof Armbands and all H2O Audio waterproof cases with the exception of those listed below.

Surge Headphones are NOT compatible with the following H2O Audio cases:
iSH3 – Interval Waterproof Headphone System for the iPod shuffle 3rd Gen
iSH2 – Waterproof Headset for the iPod shuffle 2nd

A. H3/H1 Waterproof Headphones are compatible with all H2O Audio Amphibx Waterproof Armbands and all H2O Audio waterproof cases with the exception of those listed below.

H3/H1 Headphones are NOT compatible with the following H2O Audio cases:
iSH3 – Interval Waterproof Headphone System for the iPod shuffle 3rd Gen
iSH2 – Waterproof Headset for the iPod shuffle 2nd

A. Yes. The adjustable neckband and customizable ear plugs keep the headphones securely on your head during extreme conditions.

A. No. H2O Audio earplugs do not contain Latex.

A. Yes. H2O Audio H3/H1 Headphones are completely waterproof with or without the ear plugs.

A. Yes. The watertight seal created by the earplugs forms a closed air space in your ear canals. As you swim underwater the water pressure pushes the headphones deeper into your ears thereby compressing the sealed air cavity. This forces the speaker diaphragm to work harder against the added resistance and subsequently lowers the volume. You’ll notice the volume increases as you get closer to the water’s surface.

A. Yes. You can purchase replacement earplugs from our online shop. Click here

A. Yes. Follow these steps to make the H2O Audio Waterproof Headphone cord longer.

01. Separate the earbuds/ear-clips from the neckband.
02. Remove the cord located within the track of the neckband carefully.
03. Where the wire splits, there is a block. Remove the clip that holds the block to the neckband.
04. Slide the block firmly but carefully down the cable as far as needed.
05. Slowly pull the two wires apart and it will stop at the block.

A. It can be a bit confusing to keep up with all the different versions of iPod shuffles out there and we’d like to help! There are two common versions of the iPod shuffle available at this time – the "old" 2nd Generation shuffle (the square postage stamp size) and the “new” 3rd and 4th Generation shuffle (the rectangular one shaped more like a stick of gum). If you have the earlier square size shuffle, you need the Interval 2G, if you have the newer rectangular shaped shuffle, you need the Interval 3G. There is no difference between the two rectangular shaped shuffles (described as being either the 3rd Generation or 4th Generation, or the 2GB or 4GB model) and so our new Interval 3G will work with both!

A. H2O Audio Interval Waterproof Headphones feature sealed, watertight speaker chambers. During initial use, your headphones may sound distorted or operate at very low audio levels due to a vacuum formed in the speaker chamber during air travel or shipment.

Volume and sound quality will return to normal once the pressure equalizes. Playing the headphones at 90% volume for 30 minutes typically solves this problem. Some users have also found that headphones equalize more quickly if they gently suck air out of and/or blow air into the sound tube of the headphones (we know it sounds a bit funny but it actually works!). Compressed air shouldn’t be used.

You may also find it helpful to tap the sound tube of the headphones face down into the palm of your hand as this can aid in relieving any built up pressure as well.

If the problem still occurs, wait 24 hours and test them again as the headphones will usually equalize within a short period of time.

A. The best way to achieve a watertight fit while swimming is to experiment with different earplug sizes, styles, and the angle of insertion until you find the combination that sounds and fits best.

Here are a few additional tips we’ve discovered through customer feedback:

• Push the earplugs into your ear canals far enough to establish a secure fit but not so far they become uncomfortable.
• A tighter seal may be achieved by pulling your upper ear back while inserting the earplugs.
• You may find it preferable to use different size earplugs for each ear.

For optimal in water performance, the earplugs should completely seal your ear canals:

• Insert earplugs before your ears get wet to achieve the best watertight seal.
• Larger size earplugs may be preferable during active and/or in water use as they may offer more contact with the ear and a tighter seal.
• Wrapping the headphone cables around your swim goggle straps before placing them in your ears can help secure a better fit.
• The headphones may stay in place more easily if they are tucked underneath a swim cap.

A. Yes. The wide variety of earplug sizes and styles included with Surge Waterproof Headphones provide a watertight seal with your ear canals to ensure the headphones sound as good in the water as out.

A. Yes. The watertight seal created by the earplugs forms a closed air space in your ear canals. As you swim underwater the water pressure pushes the headphones deeper into your ears thereby compressing the sealed air cavity. This forces the speaker diaphragm to work harder against the added resistance and subsequently lowers the volume. You’ll notice the volume increases as you get closer to the water’s surface.

A. Yes. You can purchase replacement earplugs from our online shop. Click here

A. No. H2O Audio earplugs do not contain Latex.

A. No. Do not attempt to wear the Interval Waterproof Headphone System without the earplugs as this may result in injury.

A. Yes. The Interval comes with a wide variety of earplug sizes and styles to ensure a secure and comfortable fit while swimming.

A. The headphones used with the Interval are 100% waterproof and can be exposed/submerged in water for unlimited time periods. If the headphones come out of your ears and fall into the water, simply shake or blow off any surface water that may remain in the earplug to help ensure the best sound experience.

A. The large Amphibx Waterproof Armband is designed to accommodate larger MP3 players and phones (iPhone, iPod touch, iPod classic, Microsoft Zune, etc.), the medium Amphibx Waterproof Armband is designed to accommodate smaller to average size MP3 players and phones (iPod nano, Sony Walkman, etc.), and the small Amphibx Waterproof Armband is designed to accommodate smaller MP3 players (iPod shuffle and Sansa Clip).

Please refer to our fit chart for a detailed compatibility list.

A. It won’t. Each H2O Audio product is individually tested to ensure that everything that leaves our factory is 100% waterproof.

In the unlikely event one of our waterproof products leaks due to a manufacture’s defect and ruins your iPhone/iPod/MP3 player, we’ll replace it*.

For more details please refer to our warranty.

* Warranty claims involving personal property damage will be put through a series of tests to determine if the product has been misused, abused, or improperly cared for. Should a product be determined by H2O Audio to have manufacturing or material defects which resulted in damage to personal property, H2O Audio, at its' sole discretion, will make reparation to the customer in the form of a repair or replacement of equal value. There can be no compensation for loss of data, etc.

A. H2O Audio Amphibx Waterproof Armbands are designed to work optimally with H2O Audio Surge Waterproof Headphones but are compatible with H2O Audio H3/H1 Waterproof Headphones and standard 3.5mm headphones.

Although Amphibx Waterproof Armbands are compatible with standard 3.5mm headphones, the armband should not be submerged under water for long periods of time without H2O Audio Waterproof Headphones plugged in.

The longer the armband is submerged under water without H2O Audio waterproof headphones, the higher the possibility water can enter the armband through the stereo jack. If your waterproof armband falls into the water while using standard, non-waterproof headphones, we suggest you remove it from the water as soon as possible.

A. The Cleartouch window featured on all Amphibx Waterproof Armbands enables full operation of touch and click wheel controls found on the front of most MP3 players. The Cleartouch window also allows limited access to push button controls found on the sides of a few MP3 players.

A. H2O Audio Amphibx Waterproof Armbands are 100% Waterproof and can be exposed / submerged in water as long as you can.

A. As long as the armband is not submerged under water for long periods of time, it should be fine. The longer the armband is submerged under water, the higher the possibility water can enter the armband through the stereo jack. In an incident that the headphones detach from the armband, we suggest getting that connection back together as soon as possible.

A. H2O Audio Amphibx Waterproof Armbands are depth rated to 12ft/3.6m underwater.

A. Yes. Even when submerged, Amphibx Waterproof Armbands will float to the surface in a short amount of time, as long as the contents are limited to an MP3 player or phone.

A. Amphibx Waterproof Armbands feature a two piece design – a waterproof compartment integrated into a neoprene armband. In the unlikely event the waterproof compartment becomes lose or detaches from the neoprene armband, the unit is still 100% waterproof. Simply tuck the waterproof compartment back into the armband and reattach the Velcro.

A. What might seem like a issue at first is actually a feature, and one that will help you enjoy your waterproof experience. We designed the end tab of the armband to be slightly oversized so the armband will not accidentally come undone and slide off your arm in the water or during active use. Most users do not fully remove the end tab after each use so it can easily be put on the next time.

A. We’ve learned that the scroll wheel assembly used on the iPod nano (5th gen) is not quite as sensitive as previous iPod models. As a result, users may find it difficult to control their nano (5th gen) when it’s inside their Amphibx Waterproof Armband. The nano (5th gen) can still be controlled but the scroll wheel does not respond or operate as smoothly as desired. The play/pause and track forward/back buttons still operate perfectly.

The scroll wheel seems to operate slightly better if the bag is held tightly to the nano and the user presses down more firmly on the window. You may also find it easier to set the iPod nano (5th Gen) to the desired playlist prior to inserting it into the armband.

Of course, we’re working on a solution for this specific issue and will post one here as soon as possible.

A. In order to be more environmentally friendly we manufacture the frame of the Amphibx armband from a PU rubber instead of a PVC rubber. PU has a slightly stronger smell than PVC and the sealed blister packaging the product is sold in doesn’t allow the armband to breathe. To minimize the smell prior to first use, remove the armband from the packaging and let it breathe. The smell usually dissipates very quickly after the packaging is opened.

A. Yes. The Amphibx Waist Extension Belt extends the strap on the Amphibx Waterproof Armband, allowing it to be worn on your hip or back. It’s perfect for lap swimming or stand up paddling.

A. Yes. Although users should not take their Amphibx Waterproof Armband into environments where the temperature fluctuates drastically as internal condensation may form (i.e. from a cold pool to a hot sauna or hot tub).

A. Wash your Amphibx Waterproof Armband by hand with water and a small amount of mild soap or detergent then let air dry out of direct sunlight.

A. Please refer to our fit chart.

A. H2O Audio Waterproof Cases are designed to work with H2O Audio Surge Waterproof Headphones, H2O Audio H3/H1 Waterproof Headphones and standard 3.5mm headphones.

Although our waterproof cases are compatible with standard 3.5mm headphones, the case should not be submerged under water for long periods of time without H2O Audio Waterproof Headphones plugged in.

The longer the case is submerged under water without H2O Audio waterproof headphones, the higher the possibility water can enter the case through the stereo jack. If your waterproof case falls into the water while using standard, non-waterproof headphones, we suggest you remove it from the water as soon as possible.

A. H2O Audio Waterproof Cases are 100% waterproof and can be exposed / submerged in water as long as you can.

A. H2O Audio Waterproof Cases are depth rated to 10ft underwater.

A. As long as the case is not submerged under water for long periods of time, it should be fine. The longer the case is submerged under water, the higher the possibility water can enter the case through the stereo jack. In an incident that the headphones detach from the case, we suggest getting that connection back together as soon as possible.

A. Yes. You can purchase O Lube from our online shop.

A. Yes. Although users should not take their H2O Audio Waterproof Case into environments where the temperature fluctuates drastically as internal condensation may form (i.e. from a cold pool to a hot sauna or hot tub).

A. Yes, however, the user will experience interference with phone functions.

A. The iDive300 has an internal amplifier to reproduce audio down to depths of 300 feet. The water pressure at this depth requires a powerful amplifier to drive the sound through the speakers. At full depth, the force of the sound waves is mitigated by the water pressure. At lesser depths or on the surface, this loud volume can damage your hearing. As a safety percaution, the iPod volume is set to 1/4 as soon as an iPod is connected.

A. Newer iPod models, with a touch-screen interface, need a special command sequence to transfer between Audio, Photo (not currently supported), and Video modes. The "Mode" button provides 1-touch access to the music and video capabilities of your iPod.
Note: The current firmware release does not support the "Photo" mode on iPod models with a touch-screen interface. Please contact H2O Audio for more information.

A. The iDive300 is designed to measure battery - life of the 3 - AA batteries that are used to power the "Made for iPod" connection electronice and the power amplifier. The Red LED will start to flash when the batteries have approximately 25% charge remaining.
Note: The battery indicator of the iPod does not reflect the power remaining in the 3 - AA batteries.

A. At this time we do not have an iPod nano (5th gen) specific insert that will hold the Nano in place - the location of the 30 pin dock connector is different on the iPod nano (5th gen) than it is on the iPod nano (4th gen).

We’re working on a solution for this specific issue and will post one here as soon as possible.

A. Users have full access over video and music playback and will be able to view photos* but will not have access to games/applications.

If you select a game on your iPod while using the iDive300, there is a possibility you will be stuck on that screen and will not be able to get back to the main menu until you get out of the water and take your iPod out of the iDive.

We’re working on a solution for this specific issue and will post one here as soon as possible.

*Note: The current firmware release does not support the "Photo" mode on iPod/iPhone models with a touch-screen interface.

A. H2O Audio prodcuts can be purchased online at the H2O Audio Shop or at an authorized dealer. Please check our Store locator to find the authorized dealers in your area.

A. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, PayPal, as well as H2O Audio Gift Certificates. Debit cards are accepted if they have a Visa or MasterCard logo.

A. H2O Audio ships through FedEx and the USPS. Each provides several fast and affordable shipping options.

FedEx Ground Shipping
This is a fast and affordable option for orders delivered to home or business addresses in the Continental United States. Delivery times of 3 to 5 business days depend on location.

FedEx 3-Day, 2-Day and Overnight Shipping
Fast delivery and tracking of your order from the time it leaves the H2O Audio warehouse until it arrives at your front door.

USPS Priority Mail
This a flat rate for all packages under 70 pounds. This is only available for APO/FPO shipping. FedEx will not ship to APO/FPO.

Shipping available to Hawaii
Ground, 2-Day, and Overnight shipping

FedEx cannot ship to PO Box's please use the Store Locator to find a dealer in your area or use an alternate address for shipping.

A. H2O Audio does its best to ship all orders as quickly as possible. If an order is placed before 11:30am PST (2:30 EST), the order will ship that day. If the order is placed after 11:30am PST it will be shipped the following business day.

Please be aware that orders shipped to an address other than the verified billing address may require extra processing time, 1-2 business days for additional security checks.
H2O Audio can only process and ship orders Monday — Friday, excluding Holidays

H2O Audio does not ship or deliver packages on Saturday, Sunday or holidays. Weekend orders are processed on the following business day. Please take this into account when placing important holiday or special occasion orders.

A. H2O Audio ships orders as quickly as possible, changing or canceling an order after it is placed is not always possible. Please contact H2O Audio immediately at 1.800.708.6080 or 858.623.0339 to see what options are available.

A. In the unfortunate event that some of or all of your order is on backordered or out of stock it will be shipped as soon as the entire order becomes available, unless otherwise noted by the customer.

A. Yes, however H2O Audio has partnered up with distributors around the world to help you place an order and save on shipping. Please check our Store Locator for distributors / dealers in your area. For assistance contact support@h2oaudio.com.
Rates do NOT include Duty Charges
H2O Audio ships to APO/FPO addresses via USPS Priority Mail only
International orders can only be shipped to the cardholder's verified billing address.

A.Shipping charges do not include any country specific import duties. Duty rates vary by country. If you need to figure out your local customs duties, taxes, brokerage fees, insurance, etc. we suggest contacting your local customs facilities and inquire with them for the total charges of your package.

A. You can always place international orders online at the H2O Audio Shop. Please keep in mind that we are constantly working to get more international distributors / dealers, and we appreciate your patience as we work to open service to your country. Please check our web site for updated countries on our Store Locator.

A. All prices shown on the H2O Audio web site are in U.S. dollars. If you need a conversion to UK pounds (GBP) or any other currencies, please refer to XE.com or a similar web site. Exchange rates change daily, and H2O Audio cannot be responsible for any loss incurred as a result of currency fluctuation.

A. International orders ship complete to save on shipping costs. If for any reason an international customer requests split shipments, a second shipping charge will be applied when the backordered items are available. Please contact support@h2oaudio.com or 1.858.623.0339.

A. H2O Audio has partnered with FedEx for delivery to most international addresses. When an order ships, H2O Audio will email you a tracking number, allowing order’s to be tracked to the final destination. However for your convenience and to save you money on shipping we strongly suggest that you check the Store Locator for distributors / dealers in your area.

A. H2O Audio accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express and PayPal. Debit cards are accepted if they have a Visa or MasterCard logo. International shoppers using a credit or debit card can order online at the H2O Audio Shop or by phone. International orders can only be shipped to the cardholder's verified billing address.

A. Unfortunately, H2O Audio can not cancel an international order that has already been shipped.

A. Before placing an order on the online H2O Audio Shop please be advised that international returns are both expensive and time-consuming. Many customers have had success selling unwanted items to friends, on Ebay or similar sites instead of paying the return shipping costs to the United States. H2O Audio will accept International returns for up to 21 days from the date the order was delivered.

• Customers are responsible for paying postage and insurance on any return package mailed to H2O Audio.

To send an item back, please enclose the H2O Audio invoice that arrived with your package. You may use any shipper you like, but we recommend purchasing tracking and insurance as H2O Audio cannot be responsible for lost return shipments. Please ship your return to the following address:

H2O Audio
4150 Mission Blvd., Suite 220
San Diego, CA 92109
USA

Once we receive your return package, please allow 1-2 weeks for processing. An email notification will be sent when the refund has been processed. A refund will be issued according to the payment method selected for the original order. Shipping fees are non-refundable.